Jan 9, 1788 Home Banks Letters May 24, 1788
Revised May 17 2021
Bounty at Sea Feb'y. 17th. 1788
Lat'd 18°:41′ So. Long'd. 31°:10′ W
Dear Sir,
I have just fallen in with the British Queen of London a Whale Fisher bound to the Cape of Good Hope an opportunity that gives me much pleasure as I can inform you of our proceedings thus far. It was the 10th. Jan'y. that I left Tenariff. I then wrote to you and sailed with a fine SE wind. On the 25th. in the lat'd. 4°:00′ No I got becalmed which continued with light airs untill the 8th. Ins't. when I crossed the Line in 22½° Wt. with a fine SE Trade which has continued ever since.
The Calm as usual was attended with heavy Rains & very sultry weather however by constant drying & Cleaning ship we kept perfectly in health as we are to turn all circumstances to our advantage all our empty water Casks were filled with Rain Water and I have now a very sufficient quantity to carry me to Otaheite without touching any where. I am happy and satisfied in my little Ship and we are now fit to go round half a score of worlds, both Men & Officers tractable and well disposed & chearfulness & content in the countenance of every one. I am sure nothing is even more conducive to health. I have no cause to inflict punishments for I have no offenders and every thing turns out to my most sanguine expectations. Nelson & the gardener are very well, indeed I have not had a sick Person since I left England, and I hope to have the honor to give you like accounts on my return.
The Winds will determine what I am to do hereafter, but this I will most faithfully promise you Sir that I will complete the grand object of our Voyage, and only with you to have the fullest hope that every thing that is possible will be done. Young Hallet is very well and is a very fine young man and I shall always attend to every thing that can be of service to him. Beleive me Sir with much respect
Your very obliged & Affectionate Hmble Servant. Wm Bligh
Your Wines are in good order and I hope will answer your expectations
Jan 9, 1788 Home Banks Letters May 24, 1788